Yolanda. Mother!.. Tell you that
You are her murderer?
Renier. The truth!
Yolanda. The truth!
[Laughs bitterly, and at a loss, as if amazed. Then, almost against her will —
It is suspicion! is that mad suspicion
That you have had of her.
Renier. It is! It is!
Yolanda. And – all because I have these days delayed
To wed with Camarin.
Renier. Delayed?
Yolanda. Because
I show befitting shame that I was here
Found in his arms … when to Amaury
I was betrothed!
Renier. Power of – ! – No!
Yolanda. Because
I grieve to leave Lusignan, this my home —
Where I have dwelt as under tented love —
Though I am bidden.
Renier. This can be?
Berengere (faintly). Yolanda!
Renier. I say – only delayed? and you – ?
Yolanda. Yes, yes.
Now I will wed him, heedless, wantless, wild.
Send for the priest and for Amaury, for
Laughter and lights and revelry – for all
Within this castle. But first to her bed,
And to tranquillity,
She must be borne, she your cold violence
Has driven here… Alessa – Tremitus!
[They have entered.
Lead her within. O mother! piteous mother! —
Ah, it was ruthless, kindless!
Renier. We shall see.
[To Hassan.
Bid Moro and Amaury. – As for her,
I soon may come and seek forgiveness.
Berengere. No!
[Hassan goes.
My brain and breath! … the pall … where am I … how
Long must I lie!..
Tremitus. She speaks to visions. So,
So can the blood do – trick us utterly!
[He supports her – with Alessa —slowly up steps and off. Yolanda covers her eyes. Hassan returns with Moro, then, and with Amaury, whose look seeks Vittia.
Yolanda (as all stand silent). Speak, speak, and tell him!
Renier. Yes, Amaury … you
Are sent for to behold Yolanda wed,
As you commanded,
Here unto Camarin. Shame has till now